Which machines do we want?

We need good quality examples of the following types of sewing machine:

• Singer round-bobbin hand machines – because spare parts are easily available in the UK and all over Africa for these old but solidly-built machines
• Singer round-bobbin hand sewing machines that have a bolt on electric motor. We can easily convert these machines back to hand machines.

Note: We also send Singer round-bobbin treadle machines and electric machines that are capable of zig-zag stitching and embroidery, but we don’t need any more of these machines at present because we are meeting demand from existing stocks.

Refurbishing sewing machines

All our hand sewing machines have a thorough overhaul to ensure that they are able to withstand the daily use and dusty conditions that they may be working in.

Electric machines must have a full electrical check by a qualified electrician before we consider them safe to send.

A comprehensive refurbishing handbook has been produced. This is a valuable training tool and reference work for refurbishers.

Our machines are usually sent to women, who may not have access to cash to buy the initial fabric and threads. With every sewing kit we therefore send a start-up kit of haberdashery items.